Philosopher · 1596 – 1650
René Descartes
Little-Known Facts
- The x-y coordinate system is called 'Cartesian' after the Latin form of his name.
- He died of pneumonia in Sweden, reportedly worn out by early-morning lessons for Queen Christina.
Myths & Misconceptions
What does 'I think, therefore I am' mean?
It means that the very act of doubting or thinking proves one's own existence — the one certainty Descartes found could survive radical doubt.